I used to write my "elevator pitch" in my phone's notes app before networking events. Like, word-for-word what I'd say if someone asked what I do. Because the thought of blanking out and stumbling over my words while some extrovert waited for me to get to the point? Absolutely not.

Here's what my guest, Heather Nelson, taught me: the most successful business relationships aren't built by the person who talks the most.

• Why traditional networking advice doesn't work for introverts
• The biggest networking mistakes that actually repel potential connections
• How to transition from online-only business building to in-person relationships
• The mindset shift that makes networking feel like making friends instead of selling
• Real examples of connections that led to business growth and lasting friendships
• Why the events you don't want to attend often create the biggest opportunities

Instead of dreading networking events and forcing yourself into uncomfortable situations that drain your energy for days...

You'll have a clear, sustainable system for building the professional relationships that actually matter. No more imposter syndrome. No more energy crashes. No more wondering if you're "doing it right."

This means: You can advance your career and grow your business while staying true to who you are - coming home energized instead of completely depleted, with genuine connections that lead to real opportunities.

Heather Nelson, founder of The Connection Hive and host of Life Conversations with a Twist podcast. Heather has spent over a decade mastering the art of authentic networking and helps business owners build relationships that drive real results.

Free Calm Mind Blueprint: www.samanthapenkoff.com/calm-mind-pod

Connect with Heather Nelson:

• Instagram: heathernelson.life
• Website: theconnectionhive.co
• LinkedIn: Heather Nelson Tapia

Ways to work with Samantha:

1:1 coaching: Now accepting applications, 1 spot open. Learn More here: www.samanthapenkoff.com/working-together

Accepting applications for September: https://www.samanthapenkoff.com/assessments/2148353310

Connect with Sam on IG: https://www.instagram.com/samantha.s.says

Do you love your career but feel guilty about it? Many working moms struggle with conflicting feelings about loving their work while wanting to be present for their kids.

In today's journaling session, we're diving deep into why you feel guilty for loving what you do and how to break free from that pattern once and for all.

What you'll discover:

• Why career guilt isn't really about being a bad mom
• The protective pattern that keeps you apologizing for your choices
• How to own your love for your work without explanation
• Why guilt might be helping you avoid harder decisions about boundaries

The blind-spot breakthrough: Your guilt about loving your career isn't about motherhood—it's a familiar pattern that protects you from having to fully own your choices and deal with others' reactions.

This is the deep work that I do with my private clients. I currently have ONE open spot. Learn more here: www.samanthapenkoff.com/working-together (prices increasing in August) or email me at hello@samantha-says.com chat about details!

Resources mentioned:

• Free Calm Mind Blueprint: A 5-day framework for busy women who crave peace and fulfillment in just 2-5 mins/day
• Connect with me on IG: @samantha.s.says

Perfect for:

• Working moms who love their careers but feel guilty about it
• Women struggling to balance career fulfillment and motherhood
• Anyone who dims their excitement about work to avoid judgment
• Moms who feel like they "should" want to be home more

Ready to stop apologizing for loving what you do? Grab your journal and let's dive in!

"What do you want, Sam?" I'll never forget staring at my therapist like a deer in headlights when she asked me that simple question. I had NO idea. After years of putting everyone else first, I'd completely lost touch with my own inner voice.

Is that you, too? You're not the only one who feels stuck between what you "should" do and what you actually want.

🎯 3 Game-Changing Takeaways:

• Release the grip - Why your expectations and need for control are blocking your intuition (and how to let go)
• Fear is information - What you're afraid to uncover is exactly what you need to explore
• Trust the process - How to create space for guidance when your mind is spinning with decisions
• 4 strategic journaling prompts - To help you get unstuck & trust your inner voice

Stop second-guessing every decision and start trusting yourself. Go from feeling paralyzed by choices to knowing what YOU actually want - not what everyone else expects from you.

How This Changes Everything:

Instead of lying awake replaying conversations or googling "how to know if I should quit my job," you'll have a clear internal compass. No more asking everyone else for advice. No more feeling guilty about your choices. Just confidence in YOUR voice.

Perfect for when you're questioning your relationship, feeling unfulfilled at work, or just need clarity on your next move.

Resources Mentioned:

Calm Mind Blueprint (FREE 5-step journaling framework): www.samanthapenkoff.com/calm-mind-pod

Ways to work with Samantha:

1:1 coaching: Now accepting applications, 2 spots open. Learn More here: www.samanthapenkoff.com/working-together

Application: https://www.samanthapenkoff.com/assessments/2148353310

Connect with Sam on IG: https://www.instagram.com/samantha.s.says